Cholesterol metabolism: Towards a therapeutic approach for multiple sclerosis

Neurochem Int. 2023 Mar:164:105501. doi: 10.1016/j.neuint.2023.105501. Epub 2023 Feb 15.

Abstract

Growing evidence points to the importance of cholesterol in preserving brain homeostasis. Cholesterol makes up the main component of myelin in the brain, and myelin integrity is vital in demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis. Because of the connection between myelin and cholesterol, the interest in cholesterol in the central nervous system increased during the last decade. In this review, we provide a detailed overview on brain cholesterol metabolism in multiple sclerosis and its role in promoting oligodendrocyte precursor cell differentiation and remyelination.

Keywords: Central nervous system; Cholesterol metabolism; Multiple sclerosis; Myelin.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Brain
  • Cell Differentiation / physiology
  • Central Nervous System
  • Humans
  • Multiple Sclerosis* / drug therapy
  • Myelin Sheath / metabolism
  • Oligodendroglia / metabolism